UFC legend and 2025 Irish presidential candidate Conor McGregor has proposed that Ireland establish a national Bitcoin strategic reserve to fight financial corruption and enhance national sovereignty.

Inspired by El Salvador’s Model

McGregor’s strategy is inspired by El Salvador’s Bitcoin adoption under President Nayib Bukele, who legalized the cryptocurrency and launched state-run digital wallets and reserves.

He believes a similar approach in Ireland could reduce dependency on traditional banks, boost transparency, and return control over money to the people.

After declaring his presidential bid in March 2025, McGregor wrote on X that he wanted to invite President Bukele to Ireland to share insights from El Salvador’s economic transformation.

Public Debate Ignited

His statement stirred mixed reactions online. Some supported the vision, while others criticized the use of the word “crypto” instead of Bitcoin specifically.

Bitcoin maximalists argued that the credibility of such a plan relies on focusing on Bitcoin’s unique decentralization rather than broader digital assets.

Nonetheless, McGregor’s idea is gaining traction, and his campaign is reportedly working on policy drafts to assess legal and institutional feasibility.

Latin America Pushes Bitcoin Narrative Forward

Ireland’s debate mirrors a larger global trend. In early May, Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi called for a regional Bitcoin alliance with El Salvador at the Bitcoin Conference.

The move reflects growing momentum in Latin America towards Bitcoin-led economic reform, putting pressure on developed nations like Ireland to rethink their stance.